Cross Connie Mack off the list?

Republican U.S. Rep. Connie Mack, who is among the 1,472 potential contenders being bandied about for retiring U.S. Sen. Mel Martinez's seat, appears to be taking himself out of the mix by endorsing a bid by former Gov. Jeb Bush.

"Jeb Bush has a proven track record of leadership that would once again benefit the people of Florida, and indeed the entire nation,'' Mack said in the statement. "He would make an outstanding United States Senator."